Oscillatory timing mechanism



March 25, 1952 c. ANDERSON J 2,590,365

OSCILLATORY TIMIN G MECHANISM.

Filed Feb. 28, 1945 5 Sheets-Sheet l I lfl a a f? X INVENTOR. Q45: rf/wz-wsa/v MKSXW/ M Arno/Mae? C. ANDERSON OSCILLATORY TIMING MECHANISM March 25, 1952 5 Sheets-Sheet 2 Filed Feb. 28, 1945 INVENTOR.

[L /r5 flame-195a jliw k March 25, 1952 c. ANDERSON OSCILLATORY TIMING MECHANISM 5 Sheets-Sheet 3 Filed Feb. 28, 1945 INVENTOR. [26 /95 finwemswv BY M Afr-0 9445) March 25, 1952 c. ANDERSON 2,590,365

OSCILLATORY TIMING MECHANISM Filed Feb. 28, 1945 5 Sheets-Sheet 4 V INVENTOR. (2,955 $140,577.90

March 25, 1952 N ERSON 2,590,365

OSCILLATORY TIMING MECHANISM Filed Feb. 28, 1945 5 Sheets-Sheet 5 l o o SE; i if 5 z r/z 22 7/5 if 47 7g;

INVENTOR. (2 94 5 fl/yawsa/v M arra/m/fy Patented Mar. 25, 1952 OSCILLATORY TIMING MECHANISM Clare Anderson, Kinnelon, N. J.

Application February 28, 1945, Serial No. 580,212

12 Claims.

This invention relates to improvements in timing mechanisms and to the control of apparatus thereby. The energy required for operation may be electromagnetic, electro-mechanical or otherwise. The invention is applicable to various purposes such as for clock operation, the control of periodic timed application of electric charges to wire fences for protection of enclosed pasture lands and the like and to the control of intermittent signals, blinker safety lights, advertising signs an so for ingen'eialfthedhvention is applicable to the control of any device where timed intermittent application of energy may be utilized.

In the usual clock or timing mechanism an oscillating balance is provided adjusted to the proper time period of oscillation. In electric clocks of that type when operated from a low voltage battery or cells, there is a timedapplication of electric energy as the source of power, controlled by a sliding make and break contact. Such clocks have the disadvantage of short life due to wear of the parts and deterioration of the contacts. They have the disadvantage of excessive consumption of energy due to friction and due to dissipation of contact member defleeting energy.

The present improvement is based upon the provision of two synchronous oscillating systems, primary and secondary, which control the intermittent application of driving energy in a novel manner. This is accomplished by contact engagement between parts of the two systems moving in the same direction and with a rolling contact between the parts; and in such a manner as to maintain a period of oscillation of the secondary system corresponding to the natural period of oscillation for which the primary balance system is adjusted. A further basic feature of the invention is the storing of applied energy during a portion of the cycle which is utilized as driving energy in another portion of the cycle. This results in reducing the energy drawn from the source of power to a minimum. and to an amount required only for overcoming friction of the parts and for driving the load on the controlled system.

One important object of the invention is to reduce the required energy consumption to a minimum thereby insuring long life of the battery or cells. Another object is to minimize under-swinging and over-swinging of the oscillatory systems and to maintain a constant average amplitude of the oscillating systems independently of variations in the driving force of the source and in the friction of the moving parts over a wide range of operating conditions. This controlling action aids in limiting the energy consumption to a minimum.

Another important object is to provide a rolling contact engagement between parts having approximately the same velocity for control of the energy supplied to the system which avoids the objectionable friction of a sliding contact ehgagement and insures long life of the contacting parts. A further object is to provide contacting means between only two parts for controlling the supply of energy for operation of the timing mechanism and the parts driven thereby. Another object is to insure good contact of the circuit controlling contact engaging means by application of pressure thereto and to utilize this pressure for storage of energy intermittently which energy is restored and applied to the moving system. This not only serves to obtain good contact of the parts and aids in providing long life thereof but decreases the energy requirements for operation of the system.

A further object is to provide means of engagement between two or more oscillating systems applicable to time dividing and comparison mechanisms whereby the primary or controlling system synchronizes and controls the secondary system or systems with a minimum influence on the former and with positive synchronization and control over the latter. Self-starting is another important object. General objects are the attainment of high efiiciency in operation, simplicity of structure, dependability and long life. These and other objects and advantages will be understood from the following description and accompanying drawings showing preferred em bodiments of the invention and applications thereof as illustrative examples.

Fig. 1 is a side view of one form of time dividing mechanism removed from its casing; Fig. 2 is a top plan view; Fig. 3 is a horizontal section on the line 33 of Fig. 1; Fig. 4 is a diagram showing the electrical connections of the parts; Fig. 5 is a diagram similar to Fig. 4 with a modified form of contact engagement; Fig. 6 is a vertical section of another form of the invention; Fig. 7 is a perspective view showing another embodiment of the invention; Fig. 8 is a perspective view showing another embodiment; Fig. 9 is a diagram showing one form of the invention applied to the protection of an enclosed area; Fig. 10 is similar to Fig. 9 with a modification of the controlled circuit; Fig. 11 is a perspective view and diagram showing a form of the invention 3 applied to the control of a signal or other form of translating device; Fig. 12 is a front view of another embodiment of the invention wherein one of the two systems is an oscillatory pendulum; and Fig. 13 is a side view thereof.

Referring to Figs. 1 to 4, the parts are supported between upper and lower mounting plates l and la of brass or other non-magnetic material. These plates are spaced apart by sleeves 2 and held in fixed relation to each other by bolts and nuts 3. The primary balance system comprises a balance staff 4 journaledinjewel bearings fixed to the inside of each plate. The usual spiral balance spring 5 is secured at its inner end to the stafi 4 and at its outer end to a pin 6 mounted on and insulated from the upper plate. An adjustable slotted pin 1 also projects downwardly beyond the end of the upper plate and straddles an intermediate portion of the outside turn of the spring. This pin projects from a manually adjustable ring 1a insulated from the plate and serves to adjust the period of oscillation of the primary balance system to the desired duration in the usual manner. The balance wheel 8 of magnetic material is fixed to the staff 4 and is of the form shown in Fig. 3 having three symmetrical projections 8a, 8b and 80. A winding 9 having a magnetic core is positioned between the plates at the back, the core being extended forwardly to form poles 9a and 9b adjacent to the balance wheel or armature 8. The electromagnet is supported by its core between pairs of spacing sleeves 2 at opposite sides of the plates.

The secondary balance system comprises a balance staff Ill journaled in jewel bearings positioned on the inside of each plate. It has a spiral balance spring ll similar to the spring 5 and is secured at its inner end to the staff It]. The outer end of the spring is secured to a pin 12 which projects downwardly from the upper plate. This pin is not insulated from the upper plate and forms an electrical connection from the outer end of the spring to the plate. A second slotted pin l3 projects downwardly beyond the edge of the upper plate and straddles an intermediate portion of the outer turn of the spring II. This pin is an extension from an adjustable ring |3a mounted on the upper plate and serves to adjust the period of oscillation of the secondary balance system. The balance wheel M of the secondary system is of metal and is fixed to the staff Ill. Its diameter is such as to cause it to extend considerably beyond the periphery of and overlap the balance wheel 8 of the primary system.

The energy for operating the apparatus is supplied from an electrical source intermittently through contact engaging means between the primary and secondary systems. Near the base of the staff 4 of the balance system, as shown in Fig. l, is fixed a projection to which the lower end of a spring member I5 is attached. This spring member extends parallel to the axis of the staff 4 of the balance system and is in the form of a resilient metal strip and is resilient in a radial direction with reference to the axis of the staff 4 but rigid in a circumferential direction with reference thereto. It extends upwardly from its lower fixed end through an opening in the balance wheel 8, the opening having considerable clearance for movement of the spring towards and away from the staff 4. At the upper end of the spring and projecting outwardly therefrom is a small contact piece 15a having an outer rounded surface adapted to engage the periphery of the balance wheel 14 of the secondary system. For the purpose of insuring good contact, the

outer face of the contact a may be of gold, silver or a platinum or tungsten alloy and a portion 14a of the periphery of the secondary balance wheel [4 may similarly be inlaid in the region where the contact l5a normally engages the pe riphery. As shown in Fig. 3, an adjustable screw l5b extends radially through and has a threaded engagement with an inner portion of the primary wheel 8. The inner end of this screw engages the outer face of the spring member l5 at an intermediate portion thereof for the purpose of adjusting the limit of movement outwardly of the spring 15 and of the contact l5a. When the parts are at rest, this contact is always in engagement under pressure of the spring with the periphery of the wheel [4.

The electrical connections and circuit of the parts are shown in Fig. 4. The source is indicated as a battery or a few cells It from which one lead is connected to the insulated terminal or pin 6 from which the circuit continues through the spiral spring 5 to the staif 4, then through the spring member l5, contact l5a, wheel 44 to the staff Ill and from the staff through the spiral spring [I to the pin [2 which is in contact with the upper plate or frame. From the upper plate a lead extends to the winding 9 from which its other lead is connected to an insulated terminal I! on the upper plate back to the battery 16. The inductance of the winding 9 causes the current to lag upon the closing of the electric circuit just traced and thereby causes the magnetic flux of the magnet to lag. This is desirable for positive torque on the primary system after the closing of the circuit. The inductance of the magnet winding may sometimes be sufiicient for a proper lagging action but where the periods of oscillation are slower than say 5 cycles per second, the poles of the magnet may be provided with lag loops in the form of rings 18 of copper or other suitable material embracing the poles of the ma net, as shown in Fig. 3. Also, a saturating magnetic shunt may be added to the magnet for obtaining additional lag when desirable; and such a shunt is shown in Fig. 3 in the form of a wire IQ of magnetic material connected to the core of the magnet beyond the ends of the winding 9. This saturating shunt in conjunction with lag loops [8 causes an additional lag of the magnetic flux at the magnet poles. When comparatively slow periods of oscillation are desirable, such as one-half a cycle per second, additional lagging of the current may be obtained by inserting a series reactor 20, as shown in Fig. 4, in the exciting circuit and by the use of a condenser 2| connected in shunt to the magnet winding. Also a non-inductive resistor 22 may be connected across the terminals of the magnet winding as a protective discharge absorber when the exciting circuit is opened. These auxiliary provisions for lagging may be separately utilized or more than one may be used according to choice and particular requirements.

When the oscillations of the system are to be summarized, as in a clock for time keeping, the primary stafi 4, or in some cases the secondary staff It, may be caused to actuate a gear train of any of the usual forms to the hands of a clock or to any other type of device where summations of the oscillations are utilized, but as this forms no part of the present invention such means is not particularly disclosed but may be incorporated within the space available between the two supporting plates of the apparatus. In Fig. 1 the staff 4 is indicated as having axially displaced portions 4a which upon oscillation of the staff serve to drive the gear 41) tooth by tooth in one direction but any suitable means for converting the oscillatory motion of the staff to a drive in one direction may be used.

The natural period of the primary balance system is adjusted by the position of the adjustable pin 1 for time keeping according to the period for which the gear train or timing device is designed, such as a period of one-half, or twofi'fths, or one-fifth of a second, or may be designed and adjusted for any other period according to the particular use of the mechanism. The natural period of the secondary balance system may be slightly shorter, equal to, or longer than that of the primary balance system insofar as producing actuation of the devices and the rolling contact action is concerned; but for more accurate regulation of the input to the system, and for obtaining a constant average, or nearly constant average amplitude of oscillations above and beyond the normal and inherent velocity self-control of such mechanisms, the natural period of oscillation of the secondary balance system must be longer than that of the natural period of oscillation of the primary system. The amount by which the period of the secondary system is longer than that of the primary system will depend upon the design, or design constants, of the mechanism.

When the parts are at rest, the contact 15a will always engage the periphery of the wheel I4 and the parts are so adjusted and related that in the rest position, two of the projections of the wheel or armature 8 will be in a position to be attracted by the poles of the magnet when the circuit is energized. Thus in Fig. 3 the projections 8a and 8c are related to the poles so that the wheel 8 will be turned in a counter-clockwise direction upon excitation of the magnet winding. This insures self-starting of the mechanism upon closing of the circuit. The movement of the wheel 8 results in a corresponding movement of the contact la and this in turn mechanically imposes rotation of the wheel M in a clockwise direction. The contact engagement is comparatively short because of the slight overlap of the radial distances of contact periphery of wheel 14 and the contact surface of l5a when the latter is in its outer limited position. But as the movement turns from the initial position the contact [5a moves outward a small distance from its axis until the spring member l5 engages the inner end of the screw l5b. Thus the contact is maintained over a, longer interval of time than would otherwise occur. This contact engagement is a rolling engagement between the contact faces and thereby the excessive friction of a sliding contact engagement is avoided. This results in a reduced consumption of energy from the source for actuation of the mechanism. The turning of the parts from their initial position soon results in the breaking of the contact between the contact 15a and the peripher of the wheel M which opens the supply circuit but the two balance systems continue their movement due to the momentum from the initial impulse. By the time the projections 8a and 8c of the armature have arrived opposite the poles of the magnet the magnetic flux has collapsed permitting these projections to move beyond the poles against the action of its balance spring. At some limit of movement the balance spring causes the reverse movement of the armature 8 and causes the contact l5a to again engage the periphery of the wheel l4 which not only again closes the exciting circuit but mechanically aids the reverse movement of the wheel [4. As already explained, there is a lag in the building up of the magnetic flux after the closing of the exciting circuit by the contact and this is adjusted to cause the attraction of the projections of the armature to the magnetic poles in the reverse direction from that first considered. Continuation of the reverse movement will cause the contact [5a to again open the exciting circuit and the parts will continue in the reverse direction after such opening of the circuit by reason of their momentum after which the balance springs will cause the reverse movements of the parts and the closing of the exciting circuit at a time to impose another impulse on the primary system in the direction first considered. This intermittent slight application of energy during each half cycle of movement results in maintaining continuous oscillation of the mechanism. In starting, the initial movement of the parts will be considerably below the full amplitude of oscillation but as the contact is established and the supply circuit closed during each successive movement of the parts, the amplitude of movement is gradually increased until built up to the approximate full amplitude of movement. It is evident that self-starting will occur whether thecontact engagement is in alignment with a line between the axes of the two stalls 4 and to or slightly displaced therefrom, but the position of rest of the parts is always such that the contact 1511 will be in engagement with the periphery of the wheel 14 and thus insure self-starting.

During operation, when the contact l5a engages the periphery of the wheel M at one side or the other of the line between the axes of the staffs, the contact l5a is in its outermost position with the spring member l5 against the end of the screw [5b. As the movement continues, the contact l5a is forced toward the axis of the staff 4 against the pressure of the spring member [5 which results in storing energy in the spring until the contact is in alignment with the line between the axes of the two staffs. When passing beyond this position of alignment the spring member [5 imposes a force upon the two systems aiding the movement in the direction in which the parts are then moving and thereby restores to the system the energy initially stored in the spring. This, of course, results in a reduced consumption of energy from the source. Also, the pressure of the spring member 15 when deflected results in a pressure engagement of the contact l5a against the periphery of the wheel I4 which aids in securing good electrical connection between the contact surfaces.

Normal operation with self-regulation for maintaining constant, or nearly constant, average amplitude of the oscillations of the mechanism may now be considered. For this purpose the time period of oscillation of the secondary system should preferably be adjusted to be longer than that of the primary system. Then the primary balance wheel and contact will always arrive at its position of equilibrium or neutral position before the secondary balance wheel or element arrives at its position of equilibrium or neutral position. The angle in degrees of are along the periphery of the secondary balance wheel 14 by which the primary element leads the secondary element will vary in amount according to the amplitude of oscillation of the balance systems, the greater the amplitude the greater becomes this leading are. Also the greater the amplitude the greater the velocity of movement of the contact engaging parts during contact engagement; and the shorter will be the time of engagement of the contacts. Therefore, under excessive amplitude of oscillation the duration of impulse from the source for maintaining oscillation will be comparatively short with the result that the amplitude of oscillation will be gradually decreased to or below normal. When below normal amplitude, the time interval of impulse from the source will be comparatively long which tends to bring the amplitude to or above normal. This continued self-regulation results in maintaining a constant or nearly constant average amplitude of oscillation with constant or nearly constant average timing of the oscillations and synchronous movement of the two systems.

It should be appreciated that under any conditions of normal operation the time interval of engagement of the contacts is a small part of the time of oscillation during any half cycle and is almost momentary in comparison therewith. When contact engagement is made the parts are moving in the same direction and engage with a rolling contact over a small arc of engagement and the contacts separate at points on the surfaces very near the points of engagement. Also, on account of the primary system imparting energy to the secondary system mechanically through the contact engagement and on account of slight difierences in velocity of the engaging parts, there is a slight rubbing of the contact surfaces against each other upon engagement which, although hardly perceptible, is sufiicient to keep the contact surfaces clean without material friction loss.

In the form of structure shown in Figs. 1 to 4 the self-regulation is due to the varying time interval of contact engagement and therefore of the time interval of the impulse received from the source of energy; and this form will be selfregulating with considerable variation in the voltage of the source of supply. But where the variations in the source of supply are likely to be quite pronounced, the modification shown in Fig. 5 will serve to overcome such variations and compensate for wide variations in the supply source. Fig. 5 is the same as Fig. 4 except that the contact surface I 412 on the periphery of the wheel H is provided at opposite ends with peripherally extending inserts 140 of insulating material such as glass, sapphire, or any other suitable material. In this form the contact l5a will sometimes engage the contact surface Hb and at times engage the insulating sections Mc. When the amplitude of oscillation is considerably above normal the contact [5a will arrive at the equilibrium or neutral position much sooner than the element l4 arrives at its neutral position with the result that it will engage one of the insulating strips I40 and continue in engagement therewith during the movement in one direction. Consequently the circuit of the source will not be energized and the primary system will not receive any impulse of actuating energy. This. of course. causes the amplitude to fall to some extent and in the next cycle of movement the contact l5a may engage the other insulating strip Mc which will again prevent any delivery of impulse energy from the source. When the amplitude is further reduced the contact I5a may sometimes engage the insulating strips and sometimes engage the contact strip Mb which would tend to prevent the amplitude of oscillation from continuing its decrease. But if the amplitude falls below normal sufilciently, the contact l5a will engage the conducting strip Mb during each half cycle of movement and thereby bring the amplitude to or above normal. This self-regulating action results in a constant or nearly constant average amplitude and timing of the mechanism. In this action selfregulation is also assisted by the time interval of engagement of the contacts l5a and Mb whenever their engagement occurs because, as explained in connection with Figs. 1 to 4, the time interval of the impulse of energy from the source is greater the less the amplitude of oscillation. The form of Fig. 5 is therefore particularly applicable to instances where there may be pronounced variation in the source of supply. Self regulation in this form and in that of Fig. 4 is independent of friction of the parts and independent of the load on the mechanism.

Refined adjustment of the spring member 15 is obtained by means of the screw l5b. This adjusts the outward limit of movement of the upper portion of the spring. The more the screw is adjusted outwardly the longer is the time of engagement of th contact l5a. with the periphery of the wheel [4. This adjustment enables the input of energy to be nicely adjusted to the energy requirements for operation of the mechanism and the load thereon.

Fig. 6 shows another embodiment of the invention wherein the primary balance system is electro-mechanically operated. Here the balance wheel of the primary system is mechanically actuated instead of magnetically operated, the mechanical operation being derived from the movement of an armature attracted by a magnet. The supporting plates for the mechanism and adjustment of the balance springs are omitted for clearness, it being understood that they are similar to those shown in Figs. 1 to 3. Parts similarly numbered correspond to those previously described.

In Fig. 6 the primary balance staff 4 is surrounded by a magnet winding 23 spaced centrally from the staff. The winding is positioned within a circular or cup-shaped frame 23a of magnetic material having at its upper portion a magnetic plate 23b. Thus a magnetic circuit is formed by this frame and plate around the winding and through the central space between the poles of the magnet and the stall 4. In this space is positioned the armature 24 of the magnet extending vertically between the poles of the magnet. This armature is in the form of a flat narrow strip or may be arc shaped in a direction around the axis of the stall" and extending only to a small extent circumferentially. The armature is fixed to and supported by a spring member 25 fixed at its lower end to a collar 25a on the stalT 4. The spring extends upwardly from the armature freely through an opening in the balance wheel 26 of the primary system. This wheel is circular in form and a screw 260. extends radially from the periphery of the wheel to the spring 25 for adjusting the limit of outward movement of the upper portion of the spring. A collar 25b is fixed to the staff 4 and from this collar a projection extends outwardly having a hooked end 250 positioned to limit the outward movement of the intermediate portion of the spring just above the armature. This hook may have an adjustable screw 25e for adjusting the limit of outward movement of this portion of the spring. The upper end of the spring carries a small outwardly projecting contact 25d having a slightly rounded outer contact face.

The secondary staff 10 has fixed thereto a circular metal balance wheel 21 the periphery of which is engaged intermittently during operation by the contact 25d. In this instance the secondary staff is shown as driving a gear train to summarize the oscillations of the mechanism. For this purpose a small gear 28 is fixed to the staff H] for oscillating a larger gear 28a loosely mounted on another stafi 281). A small collar 28c fixed to the stafi 2812 supports gear 28a. This gear actuates a pawl 28d, the inner end of which engages a ratchet wheel 28e fixed to the staff 28b. A small gear 28 fixed to the staff serves to drive the hands of a clock through appropriate gearing, a counter or any desired device. A gear 289 is also fixed to the staff 282) and is engaged by a yieldable detent 28h for preventing reverse movement of the staff during the backward movement of the pawl 28d. Although this conventional form for translating the oscillations to continuous movement in one direction is shown. any other suitable type may be utilized.

The circuit connections of Fig. 6 are shown as extending from one terminal of the battery or dry cells l6 through the balance spring ll of the secondary system to the staff 10, wheel 21, contact 25d, spring 25, staff 4, balance sprin of the primary system, winding 23 and then back to the other terminal of the source IS. A discharge resistor 22 is connected across the winding 23.

The position of rest of the parts as controlled by the balance springs is designed and adjusted so that the contact 25d is always in engagement with the periphery of the balance wheel 21; and the upper portion of the spring member 25 is spaced from the inner end of the screw 26a. Likewise, the spring member is spaced from the hook 250, the armature 24 not being attracted. Upon closing the circuit to the source 16, the circuit above traced is completed and the armature 24 is attracted radially towards the poles of the magnet, the spring member then engaging the hook 250. This imposes mechanical pressure radially and outwardly upon the upper portion of the spring member 25 which in turn mechanically turns the wheel 21 away from its rest position and with it the wheel 26 by translation of the radial forces generated. The armature 24 is attracted radially until the spring engages the screw 25e. Until the systems turn, an outward spring force would be stored in the upper portion of the spring. This outward force would remain until the systems turn far enough to permit the upper portion of the spring to engage screw 25a. The engagement of the spring against the end of the screw 26a limits the outward movement of the contact 25d resulting in the disengagement of the contact with the wheel 21. This opens the excitation circuit and releases the radial force upon the armature 24. The momentum of the balance wheels due to the initial impulse causes them to continue their movement in the initial direction against the force of the balance springs. This spring force ultimately results in reversing the direction of the systems. In the reverse movement the contact 25d again engages the wheel 21 preceding the equilibrium position of the stroke. Upon this reengagement of the systems the armature is again attracted which results in a second impulse being given to the systems in the reverse direction from that first considered. The movement continue and causes 10 the contact to be broken again and so on giving continued oscillation of the two systems.

In this case, as in the former figures, the engagement of the contact 25d with the periphery of the wheel 2! is only of short duration compared with the full stroke of the movement, thus requiring only momentary intermittent impulses from the source [6 for maintaining oscillation of the systems. Also in this case, the contact engagement is made before or near the dead center or equilibrium position of the systems and the force exerted against the spring member by the momentum of the systems in approaching the dead center position is restored by the spring to aid the movement of the system beyond the dead center or equilibrium position.

The engagement of the parts, and the position of disengagement is determined by adjustment of the screw 26a which thereby determines the contact and engagement zone. The spring member 25 is biased radially outward so that it always returns to the limit determined by the screw 25a when the primary and secondary systems are not in engagement, that is, when the systems are in either a forward or reverse excursion beyond the contact and engagement zone. Also, provided the attractive force of the magnet is sufficient to move the spring member against the hook 250 after engagement has occurred, the mechanical force imparted to the movement by the spring will always be the same in each impulse when so attracted. It follows that the actuating mechanical force imparted to the movement will be independent of variations in the electrical source provided it is sufficient to attract the armature to cause the spring to engage the hook 250. The attractive force imposed upon the armature will be unchanged during rotation because the poles of the magnet are circular and concentric with the axis of rotation.

Self-regulation in the form of Fig. 6 is obtained by variation in the duration of the contact engagement. When the amplitude of the oscillations is below normal the time of the engagement is longer giving full movement of the spring against its stop and a comparatively long interval of the mechanical actuating impulse. When above normal, this interval is shorter and at times the attractive force of the magnet may not rise to a value suflicient to impose full movement of the spring against its stop. The regulating effect thus tends to maintain the amplitude and timing of the oscillations at a constant average value.

Fig. '7 shows another form of the invention wherein the intermittent impulses are electromagnetically generated, and mechanically applied, the plates of the frame and other supporting parts being omitted for clearness. The primary staff 30 has the usual adjustable balance spring 3| and balance wheel 32. The staff has a collar 30a. for supporting the lower end of a spring member 33, the upper end or which is biased outwardly. It carries near its upper end an outwardly extending contact 33a having an outer rounded contact surface. Its outward movement is limited by a hook 30b fixed to the staff 30.

The secondary balance system comprises the stair 34 having the adjustable balance spring 35 and balance wheel 36. The staff is supported at its ends in pivot bearings 31a at the ends of a U- shaped cradle 31 having the sides of the U extending horizontally. The cradle is pivotally supported in bearings of the plates by stub staffs 31b extending from intermediate points of the end portions of the cradle. A spring 38 is secured at one end to the side portion of the cradle and at the other end to an adjustable screw mounted on a fixed support. It tends to turn the cradle on its pivots in a counter-clockwise direction against the adjustable stops 39. A magnetic armature 40 is fixed to the side portion of the cradle opposite the poles of a magnet having windings 4|. In some cases the side portion of the cradle may serve as the armature when made of magnetic material. The magnet when energized attracts the side of the cradle against the action of the spring 38 in a clockwise direction, this movement being limited by an adjustable stop 42 which is mounted on a fixed member and engaged by a projection from the armature 40. The adjustable stop 42 determines the stroke of the cradle assembly and thereby controls the magnitude of each energy impulse delivered to the primary balance system. The stops 39 determine the initial depth of engagement between the primary and secondary system contact and engagement members. At one side of the lower pivot of the cradle is secured a yieldable pawl 43 engaging a ratchet wheel 43a fixed to a staff 43b for translating the oscillations of the cradle to motion of the staff in one direction. A detent member 43d prevents motion of the ratchet wheel in the reverse direction. A gear 430 is fixed to the staff and may serve to drive a gear train for clock use or otherwise.

The balance wheel 36 of the secondary system carries on a portion of its rim, a contact strip 36a adapted to be engaged at times by the contact 33a. This wheel is cut away at a portion of its rim adjoining the contact strip 36:; as indicated at 36b. When the energizing circuit is closed, it finds a path from the source 44 through the spring 3!, staff 30, spring member 33, contact 33a, wheel 36, staff 34, spring 35, cradle 31 from which a flexible lead extends to the windings 4| of the magnet from which the circuit is completed back to the source 44. A discharge resistor 45 is connected across the terminals of the magnet windings.

The balance spring 3| is adjusted to obtain the natural period of oscillation of the primary sys tem for the desired timing; and the spring 35 is adjusted to obtain a longer period of oscillation of the secondary system than that of the primary system. The parts are adjusted to cause the contact 33a to engage the contact strip 36a when in the rest position and at a point to one side of the dead center position of the secondary system. 7

Assuming the parts to be at rest, self-starting is accomplished upon connecting the source to the circuit just traced. This causes the side of the cradle to be attracted against the spring 38 to the stop 42. The turning of the cradle on its pivots gives a mechanical impulse to the primary balance system in a direction approximately normal to the axis of the primary system. The impulse, as initially applied to the primary balance system is essentially contraradial and is translated to rotational energy by the rolling action of primary and secondary balance elements under the translatory influence of contact and engagement spring member 33. This in turn mechanically actuates the secondary balance in a direction opposite to that of the primary system by the engagement of the contact 33a against the rim of the wheel 36 and by the compression of spring member 33. The continued movement of the parts results in the contact 33a disengaging the rim of the wheel 36 when the spring 33 engages the hook 3%. Upon the reverse movement of the parts due to the stored energy in the balance springs 31 and 35, the primary system carrying contact 33a will return at a faster rate of speed than the secondary system carrying wheel 36, due to the difference in adjustment of the periods of the two systems, and thus cause the contact 33a to be opposite the cut away portion 362) of the wheel 36. It follows that no impulse is imparted on the reverse stroke. However, when the parts again move in the direction first considered, the contact 33a arrives near the neutral or equilibrium position sooner than the wheel 36 causing the contact 33a to engage the strip 36a. This again closes the circuit giving the parts an impulse in the manner first described. The parts are thus kept in continuous oscillation by an intermittent impulse occurring once in each full cycle or on alternate strokes of the oscillations.

Self-regulation is obtained in the form of Fig. 7 by the varying time interval of the contact engagement. When below the normal time period of oscillation, the time interval of engagement is longer and the comparatively early movement of the armature against the stop 42 takes place giving a comparatively strong and long impulse to the parts, thereby raising the amplitude of oscillations to or above normal. When the oscillations are above normal the time interval of contact engagement is shorter giving a shorter duration of the impulse and a comparatively later arrival of the cradle at its full limit of movement. Thus a constant or nearly constant average amplitude of oscillations is maintained. The structure also has advantages similar to those described with reference to the other figures of a rolling contact under pressure, restoration of the stored energy in the spring 33 to the movement, slight consumption of energy from the source giving long life to the battery or dry cells, single contact engagement, self-regulation to minimize the influence of variations in the source or of the driven load over broad limits, limitation of the maximum value of the impulse force, and various other advantages.

Fig. 8 shows another form somewhat similar to that of Fig. 7, the parts corresponding to those of Fig. 7 being similarly numbered. In Fig. 8 the secondary balance wheel 46 instead of being cut away as in Fig. '7 is a continuous circle in its periphery. The cradle 41 is shown in the form of a closed rectangular strip having pivotal supports 41a near its upper and lower rear corners. The secondary staff 34 is pivotally supported between intermediate portions of the upper and lower parts of the cradle or frame 41. A spring 48 is adjustably fixed at one end and is secured to a front portion of the cradle for retracting the cradle and stafi 34 toward the stail 30. An armature 46a is secured to the front portion of the cradle opposite the poles of a magnet having differential windings. These windings and their connections are indicated in Fig. 8. Each leg of the magnet has two windings Ma and 41b connected to cause the magneto motive force of each winding to oppose and neutralize that of the other when both windings of each leg are energized as indicated by the arrows. The circuit connections of the apparatus are from one side of the source 44 through a switch 44a, balance spring 3|, stall 36, spring 33, contact 33a when engaging the periphery of wheel 46, then through wheel 46,

staff 34, spring 35 to cradle 41 and then by a connecting wire to the windings 4 la and through them in parallel through switch 441) to the other side of the source. The windings 4Ib are connected in parallel with each other from the switch 44b to the other side of the source 44 from that to which the switch 44b is connected, thereby giving constant energization to windings 411) when switch 441) is closed. The windings 4la. are energized intermittently through the circuit of the balance systems only when the contact 33a engages the balance wheel 46.

An adjustable stop screw 49 shown at the lower portion of the cradle limits the extent to which the cradle may be retracted by the spring 48 and this screw is adjusted for proper engagement between the primary and secondary contact engaging parts. An adjustable stop screw 49a limits the extent to which the cradle may be attracted by the magnet and is adjusted for proper length of stroke of the cradle system. The balance spring 3! f the primary system is adjusted to secure the desired time period of primary oscillations. The balance spring 35 of the secondary system need not be adjusted so that the time period of the secondary system is the same as that of the primary but is preferably adjusted to be about equal to or slightly longer than that of the primary system.

Fig. 8 shows the parts at rest, the switches 44a and 44b being open; and the cradle is retracted by the spring 48 against the stop 49. In this position the cradle has forced the balance wheel 46 against the contact 33a and has deflected the upper portion of the spring 33 inwardly. The pressure between the parts has caused the staffs 30 and 34 of the two systems to turn in opposite directions to each other against the torque of the balance springs and at one side or the other of the equilibrium position of the spring 33 which position is on a line between and normal to the axes of the two stafi's. The mechanism is started by first closing the switch 44b, the switch 44a being open. This closes a circuit from one side of the source 44 through switch 44b and windings 41b to the other side of the source. The cradle is then attracted by the magnet and turned on its pivots 41a against the force of the spring 48. This reduces the pressure of the wheel 46 against the contact 33a to such an extent as to permit the balance springs of the systems to turn their stafis toward the equilibrium position and thereby prepare the systems to start in oscillation. The switch 44a is then closed and a circuit is then completed from the source through switch 44a, balance spring 3|, staff 30, spring 33, contact 33a, wheel 46, staff 34, balance spring 35, cradle 41, and then by a wire connection through the windings 4| :1. and switch 44b to the other side of the source. Thus the windings 4| a are excited and as their effect is to oppose that of the windings 41b previously excited. the magnetization of the magnet is neutralized. This permits the cradle to be retracted by the spring 48 and to exert pressure by the wheel 46 against the contact and the spring 33 forcing the upper portion of the spring inwardly towards the axis of the staff 30. This increased pressure stored in the spring 33 is translated to impose rotation on the two systems by the outward pressure of the spring 33 against the periphery of the wheel 46 until the spring engages the hook 30b. The momentum of the parts in the impelled direction causes their continued movement and the contact 33a to break connection with the wheel 46. This opens the 14 circuit of the windings 41a of the magnet and permits the windings 4 lb to have their full eifect and turn the cradle against the force of the spring 48. This causes the wheel 46 to be moved further away from the contact 33a. The force of the balance springs finally overcomes the momentum of the parts and reverses the movement of the two systems. In this reverse movement and when the parts are approaching their position of equilibrium, the contact 33a again engages the wheel 46. This closes the circuit of the magnet windings 4la as before and permits the spring 48 to turn the cradle and force the wheel 46 against the contact 33a. This again deflects the upper portion of the spring 33 storing energy therein which is utilized to actuate the systems in the direction in which they are then moving. Their continued movement results in the contact 33a breaking connection with the wheel 46 deepergizing the windings 41a. The magnet then attracts the cradle by the effect of the windings 41b. The systems continue their movement in the direction just referred to until the force of the balance springs reverses the movement. In this reverse movement the contact 33a again engages the wheel 46 as the equilibrium position is approached resulting in another impulse being imposed upon the two systems in the manner already described. Thus the two systems will continue to oscillate and receive a mechanical impulse from the movement of the cradle during a portion of each stroke or half cycle of movement of the oscillatory systems.

The timing of the effective action of the magnet in relation to the mechanical impulses of the springs may be controlled by any one or more of the means described with reference to Figs. 1 to 4 for affecting the lag of the magnetic flux when necessary. The proper relationship between the mechanical impulses of the springs and the magnetic attraction and release of the armature of the magnet may thereby be closely adjusted; and this also applies to the disclosures of Figs. 6 and 7. It will be apparent that the various advantages already referred to with reference to the prior disclosures apply likewise to Fig. 8; and that self-regulation is accomplished by the varying time interval of the contact engagement.

Fig. 9 is similar to Fig. 4 and shows the invention applied to a pen or pasture enclosure for applying an electric shock to any animal touching the wire fencing. The parts corresponding to Figs. 1 to 4 are similarly numbered in Fig. 9. A step-up transformer 50 has its primary connected in series in the circuit of the timing mechanism. One terminal of the comparatively high potential secondary winding is connected to the bare wire fencing 5| which may be a single wire suspended on insulators around the enclosure or two or more spaced wires or a wire netting. The other terminal of the secondary is connected to ground. The timed intermittent passage of current in the circuit of the mechanism and through the primary of the transformer imposes a high potential intermittently at frequent intervals on the fencing 5|. Whenever an animal contacts the fencing it completes the circuit of the secondary through the animal and ground connection giving the animal a shock which keeps it away from the wire fence.

Fig. 10 is the same as Fig. 9 except it shows the invention applied to regions where the ground is particularly dry. Here the fencing would consist of say two wires strung around the enclosure parallel to each other one of which 52 is supported on insulators above the other 52a and respectively connected to the secondary of the transformer 50. When the animal makes contact between the two wires 52 and 52a it will close the circuit of the secondary and the animal will receive a shock which scares it away from the fencing. The application of the invention to protective fencing may be utilized in connection with the disclosures of Figs. 6 to 8 by connecting the primary of the transformer 50 in series in the electric circuit of the timing mechanism of the different figures.

Fig. 11 shows the invention utilized for the operation of a signal of any form such as a horn intermittently operated, blinker light or any other type of device. Such devices may be utilized for the operation of signals at sea such as at light houses, buoys, as caution signals at cross-roads of highways, advertising signs and for many other purposes where intermittent operation is desired. The form of disclosure in Fig. 7 is selected in Fig. 11 for illustration of this use of the invention. although any of the forms of Figs. 1 to 8 could be utilized in the same manner. The parts similarly numbered in Fig. 11 correspond to those of Fig. '7.

In Fig. 11 the intermittent timed passage of the current in the circuit of the mechanism is amplified for operation of the signal. Any suitable form of amplifier could be provided but the electronic form shown in Fig. 11 is particularly applicable. The primary 53 of a transformer is connected in series or in parallel with the circuit of the mechanism. The terminals of the transformer secondary 53a, are connected respectively to the grids 54a and 55a of the electronic tubes 54 and 55. The cathodes 54b and 55b of the two tubes are connected together and to a mid-tap of the secondary 53a through an inductor 56, a capacitor 51 being connected across the inductor. The plates 54c and 550 of the two tubes are connected respectively to the terminals of the primary winding 58 of another transformer, the secondary 58a of which is connected to the signal 59. A source of direct current, such asthe battery 60, is connected to the mid-taps of the secondary 53a and primary 58. A battery 6| supplies current to the heating elements 54d and 55d of the two tubes. An inductive device 52 of comparatively high inductance may be connected across the terminals of the primary 53.

Upon the intermittent closing of the circuit of the timing mechanism through the winding 53, the magnetic flux rises in the core of the transformer inducing a current in the upper half of the winding 53a passing upwardly to the grid 54a then to the cathode 54b and through the inductor 56 back to the mid-tap of the winding 53a, thus forming the grid circuit. A current also passes from the positive terminals of the battery 60 to the mid-tap of the winding 58 through the upper half of the winding to the plate 540, cathode 54b and then through the inductor 56 to the negative terminal of the battery. The passage in the upper half of winding 58 of the amplified current, as controlled by the current in the grid, induces a current in the secondary winding 58a which actuates the signal.

Upon the intermittent opening of the circuit of the timing mechanism, the flux decreases in the core of the transformer having the winding 53 which induces a current in the secondary 53a in the reverse direction from that first considered. This current then passes downwardly in the lower half of winding 53a to the grid 55a,

then to the cathode 55b, through the inductor 55 to the mid-tap of the winding 53a, thus completing the grid circuit. A current also passes from the positive terminal of the battery 60 to the mid-tap of the winding 58 and through its lower half to the plate 550, cathode 55b and through inductor 56 to the negative terminal of the battery. The passage of the current in the lower half of the winding 58 as controlled by the grid induces a current in the secondary 58a which again actuates the signal. Thus two impulses of current are delivered to the signal, one due to each closing of the circuit of the timing mechanism and the other to the opening.

Figs. 12 and 13 show another embodiment of the invention wherein one of the oscillatory systems comprises a pendulum. This form is particularly useful when a very high degree of accuracy of timing is essential, such as for laboratory use, as a standard for testing purposes, as a standard clock for comparative purposes and for any use where high accuracy of timing is required. The pendulum 65 has the usual adjustable weight 65a and is shown supported at its upper end by a cross-piece 651) having flexible supporting strips 65c extending upwardly from its ends. The upper ends of the strips 650 are secured to a fixed cross-piece 65d. The lower end of the pendulum carries a metal cross-piece 66 which extends in a direction at right-angles to the plane in which the pendulum swings. A downward extension at one end of the cross-piece 66 supports one end of a resilient strip 6! which extends inwardly in a direction at right-angles to the plane of movement of the pendulum. The strip 51 is biased to move downwardly at its free end and is limited in such movement by a hook or extension 56a of the cross-piece 66. The strip 61 carries, near its free end and on its lower face, a contact 61a having a rounded lower contact engaging portion. The strip 61 is resiliently movable in a radial direction with reference to the axis of the pendulum but rigid in a circumferential direction with reference thereto. The parts of Figs. 12 and 13 thus far described comprise the primary oscillatory system.

The secondary system comprises a frame 68 mounted on pivots 68a. The frame has two oppositely disposed arms 68b extending upwardly therefrom. A staff 69 is pivotally supported by jewel bearings carried by the arms. The axis of the staff is perpendicular to the plane of movement of the pendulum. A spiral balance spring 10 surrounds the staff and has its inner end fixed to the staff and its outer end secured to a pin 10a insulated from and supported by the frame. A metal balance wheel II is fixed to the staff 69 and has a diameter sufiicient to cause its periphery to engage the contact 610. when the frame 68 is in its lowest position. An insert I la of suitable contact material may be used to form a portion of the periphery of the wheel when it engages the contact 61a. A fixed stop 12 limits the lowest position of the frame 68 against the tractile force of spring '11 and is adjusted for proper engagement between the wheel H of the secondary balance system and the contact 61a of the primary balance system. A fixed stop 13 limits the upper position of the frame and is adjusted for proper length of stroke of the frame or cradle system.

An electromagnet serves, when energized, to attract the free end of the frame 68 towards the stop '13, the frame turning on its pivots 68a. The magnet is supported in a fixed position by any suitable means and is shown as having a winding 14 on each of its downwardly extending poles. A cross-piece 15 of magnetic material is fixed to the top of the free end of the frame and forms the armature of the magnet. The circuit connections may be traced from one side of the source 16 to the support of the pendulum, then through the pendulum and cross-piece 66, spring member 61, contact 61a, wheel II when engaged by the contact, then through the staff 69, balance spring 10, pin 10a, and through the windings 14 to the other side of the source. A discharge resistor 18 may be connected in shunt to the windings 14.

Figs. 12 and 13 show the parts in their approximate position of rest, the wheel H being in engagement with the contact 67a. When the source 76 is connected in the circuit previously traced, self-starting is obtained by the magnet attracting its armature and turning the frame 68 on its pivots. This in turn raises the wheel H somewhat and imposes additional pressure on the contact 61a and spring 61, deflecting the latter and storing energy therein. The increased pressure of the spring and contact on the wheel H will cause the pendulum to swing in one direction or the other, say to the left in Fig. 12, and turn the wheel H correspondingly against the action of the balance spring. This movement continues until the momentum of the parts causes the contact 61a to disengage the wheel and thereby open the magnetic circuit, the spring 61 then engaging the hook 66a. This releases the frame which is retracted by spring I! and further separates the wheel from contact. The momentum of the parts in the direction considered is finally overcome, the pendulum by gravity and the wheel H by the balance spring, and the parts then reverse their direction of movement. As the parts approach their position of equilibrium, the contact 61a again engages the wheel H which closes the magnetic circuit and causes the frame and wheel to be raised and again store energy in the spring 61 by raising it against its biased pressure. As soon as the parts pass the equilibrium position in the new direction, the pressure of the spring gives them a further mechanical impulse in their directions of movement until the contact 61a again disengages the wheel H. This again opens the circuit of the magnet which permits the spring IT to retract the frame and moves the wheel further from the contact. After the momentum of the parts in the irection just considered is overcome, their reverse movement causes the contact to again engage the wheel as the parts approach the neutral or equilibrium position, resulting in repeating the action already described in this reverse direction. Thus a mechanical impulse is imparted to oscillate the two systems during each stroke of the movements and continued oscillation is thereby obtained.

In the foregoing description of operation, it has been assumed that the time period of oscillation of the pendulum of the primary system is the same, or about the same, as that of the balance system of the secondary system. In some cases, especially when a long pendulum is used, it is preferable to impose a shorter time period on the balance system in proper ratio to that of the pendulum. For example, when disengagement of the contacting parts take place, the balance system may reverse its direction of movement while the pendulum continues its movement in one direction. The balance system may then complete its stroke in this reversed direction, again reverse, and again reverse so that after the last reversal it is moving to cooperate with the movement of the pendulum as it approaches its equilibrium position. That is, the balance system will then be designed and adjusted to make three strokes, or close thereto, while the pendulum makes one stroke. Any other odd ratio may be utilized such as 3 to l, 5 to 1 and so on.

In the disclosures of Figs. 12 and 13, the selfregulation of amplitude is obtained as controlled by the velocity of movement of the parts. If above normal the duration of the contact engagement is short with the result of a reduced mechanical impulse being imposed on the systems which, of course, decreases the amplitude of the two systems. If the oscillations are below normal, the duration of the contact engagement is longer which serves to increase the movement of the parts to or slightly above normal. This self-regulation results in a. constant, or very nearly constant average amplitude of oscillation, and a constant or very nearly constant, average timing of the oscillations. It will be apparent that the disclosures of Figs. 12 and 13 have the various advantages already described with reference to the prior disclosures. A clock train or other mechanism maybe actuated by the apparatus disclosed in Figs. 12 and 13 in any suitable manner. A simple means is indicated in Fig. 12 where a resilient spring '16 is shown fixed at one end to the frame 68 and adapted to engage and actuate a ratchet 16a tooth by tooth by the downward movement of the frame. The ratchet 16a is fixed to a shaft suitably supported in bearings and the shaft has a gear 16b fixed thereto for driving the clock train or other devices. A spring detent TBc engages the ratchet 16a. forpreventing its backward movement.

The character and location of the spring memher which makes the contact engagement between the two oscillatory systems of the various disclosures herein is important for best results. This is a resilient strip displaced from and approximately parallel to the axis of the oscillatory member by which it is carried and biased to move outwardly therefrom in a radial direction from the axis and movable inwardly toward the axis intermittently in operation of the mechanisms. It is rigid in a circumferential direction with reference to the said axis in order to translate its stored energy to a rotational impulse on the parts. It is without friction and durable in long continued use when made of proper spring material, such as Phosphor bronze. It occupies small space, is easily assembled and maintains its proper position and alignment indefinitely.

In the self-starting of the various disclosures already described, it should be noted that the full oscillatory movement is not immediately attained. The initial actions may be a few impulses before the parts acquire sufficient momentum to swing through the equilibrium position; after which the amplitude of movement is gradually increased to normal.

It has been explained in connection with Figs. 12 and 13 that the ratio of the time periods of oscillation of the two oscillatory systems may be made 1 to 1, 3 to l, and so on. Likewise with reference to the various other disclosures herein, the ratio is not necessarily 1 to 1 but may be otherwise according to the design and character of the mechanism. The terms synchronous or synchronism, or corresponding periods, as used herein should be considered applicable to ratios other than 1 to 1.

As to each of the various disclosures, it will be understood that any one or more of the means for lagging the magnetic flux or current of the magnet, as described with reference to Figs. 1 to 4, may be utilized when required for obtaining proper timing of the magnetic action in relation to the movement of other parts. Also, although a source of direct current has been indicated in each of the disclosures, an alternating current source may be used instead.

The different timing mechanisms particularly disclosed herein may be utilized for operating various other forms of devices for adaptation to particular purposes, the timing of the controlling mechanism being designed and adjusted to suit the special requirements. Also the timing mechanism or apparatus may be variously designed and modified for adaptation to particular uses and according to choice of the designer without departing from the scope of the invention.

I claim:

1. A timing mechanism comprising two oscillatory systems, one of said systems havin a resilient contact and the other of said systems having a contact and adjoining insulation each variably engaged by said resilient contact by the oscillations of said systems, and electromagnetic means intermittently and variably controlled by said variable engagement for maintaining the oscillations of the systems.

2. A timing mechanism comprising an oscillatory system having a pivoted staff, a second pivoted staff, an armature carried by one of said staffs movable radially with reference to said stafi, a contact carried by said armature, a contacting element carried by the other of said staffs intermittently engaged by said contact by the oscillations of said system, and a magnet for actuating said armature intermittently energized by said engagement for maintaining the oscillations of said system.

3. A timing mechanism comprising an oscillatory system having a pivoted staff, a pivoted frame, a staff pivoted on said frame and having its axis displaced from the pivot axis of said frame, a resilient contact carried by one of said staffs, a contact element carried by the other of said staffs intermittently engaged by said resilient contact by the oscillations of said system, said engagement serving to transmit energy mechanically between said staffs and electromagnetic means controlled by said intermittent engagement for intermittently actuating said frame on its pivots for thereby bringnig said contact and contact element into engagement for maintaining the oscillations of said system.

4. A timing mechanism comprisnig two oscillatory systems, a source of energy for maintaining the systems in oscillation, and engaging means between the systems for controlling the intermittent supply of energy from said source, said engaging means comprising a spring strip resiliently movable in a radial direction towards and from the axis of one of the systems and rigid in a tangential direction with reference to said axis.

5. A timing mechanism comprising two synchronous oscillatory systems, and a source of ennergy for maintaining the systems in oscillation, each of said systems having the periphery of one of its oscillatory parts engaging the periphery of one of the oscillatory parts of the other system by a rolling engagement for thereby transferring energy between the systems, one of said parts having a resilient support and thereby movable in a radial direction toward and from its axis when engaged and disengaged by the other of said parts.

6. A timing mechanism comprising two synchronous oscillatory systems, a source of energy for maintaining the systems in oscillation, each of said systems having the periphery of one of its oscillatory parts engaging the periphery of one of the oscillatory parts of the other system by a rolling engagement for thereby transferring energy between the systems, one of said parts having a resilient support and thereby movable in a radial direction toward and from its axis when engaged and disengaged by the other of said parts, and a stop movable with said resiliently supported part for limiting the movement of said resiliently supported part in a direction outwardly from its axis for determining the period of engagement of said parts.

7. A timing mechanism comprising two synchronous oscillatory systems, and a source of energy for maintaining the systems in oscillation, each of said systems having the periphery of one of its oscillatory parts engaging the periphery of one of the oscillatory parts of the other system by a rolling engagement for thereby transferring energy between the systems, the extent of the engaging portion of one of said peripheries being less than that of the other of said peripheries and the distance from one of said peripheries to its axis of oscillation being difierent from the distance from the other of said peripheries to its axis, one of said parts having a resilient support and thereby movable in a radial direction toward and from its axis when engaged and disengaged by the other of said parts.

8. A timing mechanism comprising two synchronous oscillatory systems, a, source of energy for maintaining the systems in oscillation, each of said systems having the periphery of one of its oscillatory parts engaging the periphery of one of the oscillatory parts of the other system by a rolling engagement for thereby transferring energy between the systems, the extent of the engaging portion of one of said peripheries being less than that of the other of said peripheries and the distance from one of said peripheries to its axis of oscillation being different from the distance from the other of said peripheries to its axis, one of said parts having a resilient support and thereby movable in a radial direction toward and from its axis when engaged and disengaged by the other of said parts, and a stop movable with said resiliently supported part for limiting the movement of said resiliently supported part in a direction outwardly from its axis for determining the period of engagement of said parts.

9. A timing mechanism comprising two synchronous oscillatory systems, each of said systems having the periphery of one of its oscillatory parts engaging the periphery of one of the oscillatory parts of the other system by a rolling engagement for mechanically transferring energy between them, electromagnetic means for actuating one of said systems, and means controlled by the engagement of said peripheries for intermittently energizing said electromagnetic means for maintaining the oscillations of the systems.

10. A timing mechanism comprising two synchronous oscillatory systems, each of said systems having the periphery of one of its oscillatory parts engaging the periphery of one of the oscillatory parts of the other system by a rolling engagement for mechanically transferring energy between them, one of said parts having a resilient support and thereby movable in a radial direction toward and from its axis when engaged and disengaged by the other of said parts, electromagnetic means for actuating one of said systems, and means controlled by the engagement of said peripheries for intermittently energizing said electromagnetic means for maintaining the oscillations of the systems.

11. A timing mechanism comprising two oscillatory systems, each of the systems having the periphery of one of its oscillatory parts engaging the periphery of one of the oscillatory parts of the other system by a rolling engagement for mechanically transferring energy between them, one of said parts having a resilient support and thereby movable in a radial direction toward and from its axis when engaged and disengaged by the other of said parts, said engaging parts having electrical contacting parts engaged in the at rest position of the systems, electromagnetic means for actuating one of said systems, and means controlled by the engagement of said electrical contacting parts for energizing said electromagnetic means in the at rest position of the parts for starting said systems in oscillation and for intermittently energizing said electromagnetic means during oscillations for main taining the oscillations of the systems.

12. A timing mechanism comprising two oscillatory systems, each of the systems having the periphery of one of its oscillatory parts engaging the periphery of one of the oscillatory parts of the other system by a rolling engagement for mechanically transferring energy between them, one of said parts having a, resilient support and thereby movable in a radial direction toward and from its axis when engaged and disengaged by the other of said parts, a stop movable with said resiliently supported part for limiting the movement of said resiliently supported part in a direction outwardly from its axis for determining the period of engagement of said parts, said engaging parts having electrical contacting parts engaged in the at rest position of the systems, electromagnetic means for actuating one of said systems, and means controlled by the engagement of said electrical contacting parts for energizing said electromagnetic means in the at rest position of the parts for starting said systems in oscillation and for intermittently energizing said electromagnetic means during oscillations for maintaining the oscillations of the systems.

CLARE ANDERSON.

REFERENCES CITED The following references are of record in the file of this patent:

UNITED STATES PATENTS Number Name Date 1,564,803 Warren Dec. 8, 1925 1,772,556 Poole Aug. 12, 1930 1,791,945 Walker Feb. 3, 1931 1,852,896 Poole Apr. 5, 1932 1,867,295 Wirz July 12, 1932 2,008,338 Rodanet July 16, 1935 2,198,358 Vaughan Apr. 23,- 1940 2,248,411 Neureuther July 8, 1941 FOREIGN PATENTS Number Country Date 257,408 Great Britain Sept. 2, 1926 394,965 Great Britain June 22, 1933 476,952 Germany May 28, 1929 548,330 France Oct. 18, 1922 844,493 France Apr. 24, 1939 

